THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NEW MEXICO FARM AND LIVESTOCK BUREAU®
Earl and Coleen Greer Farm Family of the Year Page 1
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Winter 2022
NMF&LB President’s Column TRACTOR SEAT DAYDREAMING
BY CRAIG OGDEN
Remembering the Farmers and Ranchers
Another summer is gone and we are now in the season of autumn. I don’t know about you, but I am ready for this year to be over and done with! It just feels like a trying time for everyone. We started the year with a severe drought. Many had to reduce cattle numbers and reduce acreage farmed. To add to these obstacles, inputs have increased in price, crops were hailed on in some areas and there is a nonexistent labor force, just to name some of the challenges that have affected not only agriculture, but many industries. Ogden cont. on page 32
AFBF President’s Column BEYOND THE FENCEROWS
BY ZIPPY DUVALL
Hanging On Through Supply Chain Challenges
I Like many Americans, I’ve noticed fewer options and higher prices at the grocery store and watched gas prices climb over the past few months. As I continue traveling around the country, everywhere I visit, I’m hearing from farmers and ranchers that can’t get needed supplies like fertilizer, crop protectants, parts for equipment, and even some seeds for next year’s planting season. It’s helpful to review the analysis by American Farm Bureau economists to understand what is driving all this. Duvall cont. on page 30
NMF&LB CEO’s Column CHATTING WITH CHAD
BY CHAD SMITH
A Tale of Two Bills
While New Mexico’s farm, ranch and dairy families are #stillproducing our favorite foods, the political world is consumed by two bills – the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act which has been signed by the President and promises to benefit our state’s food producers and rural citizens; and the Build Back Better Act which, while passed by the House, is being held up in the Senate. New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau supported the passage of the infrastructure bill, but we oppose the BBB Act which is mostly comprised of social policy. Smith cont. on page 30
On the cover: Farm Family of the Year Earl and Collen Greer with their extended family. Page 2
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Winter 2022
Ian & Colin Robson
Farm Credit of New Mexico has been farmer and rancher owned for over a century. Year in and year out, we’ve provided financial services to family-owned businesses of all sizes, helping them grow and prosper. That’s the difference between being a bank and being customer owned. What can we do for you? farmcreditnm.com 1-800-451-5997
Page 3
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Winter 2022
New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau’s Annual Meeting By Dalene Hodnett, Director of Communications and Media Relations From passing resolutions, to passing the night away on the dance floor, the 2021 NMF&LB Annual Meeting was a great event. Members from across the state gathered November 18th-19th in Albuquerque where they elected new board members, heard great speakers and honored their own with awards of recognition. Our Farm Family of the Year award went to Earl and Coleen Greer. Earl was raised on a commercial cow/ calf and yearling operation near Winston and his family also operated an alfalfa farm near Cuchillo. His family bred and raised registered quarter horses and brought the first Simmental cattle into the state in 1972. They also brought the first Watusi cows which were crossed with Longhorn bulls. While much of the ranch was sold in 1998, they kept a small portion which has been leased to a neighbor. In 1986 Earl started the Greer Memorial Roping in Winston before moving it to Albuquerque in 1990. Through its 20-year run, the roping generated over $100,000 which was donated to the UNM Cancer Research and Treatment Center. Having been raised in agriculture, Earl was drawn to working on behalf of other farmers and ranchers in their real estate needs. Earl has served as the President, and Coleen as the Secretary-Treasurer, Farm Family of the Year Earl and Coleen Greer of Bernalillo County Farm & Livestock Bureau for over 20 years. Coleen and Earl have been married 44 years and have been blessed with four children and 14 grandchildren. Volunteer of the Year Steve Myrick
“We are honored to recognize the valuable role Earl and Coleen have played as leaders in our organization,” says Chad Smith, NMF&LB CEO. “Their dedication and 20 plus years of service are greatly appreciated.” Another dedicated member of NMF&LB who was recognized as the Volunteer of the Year was Steve Myrick of Curry County. Mr. Myrick first became a member of New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau in 1966, before he had even graduated from high school, because his father thought he needed his own insurance for his own farm. A year later Steve and his brother together purchased Myrick Farms where they grow wheat, corn and forage sorghum for local dairies. Mr. Myrick joined the board of Curry County Farm & Livestock Bureau in 1997 and has served on various committees to help host the buyer’s dinner for the fair and organize county candidate forums. “Steve has a huge heart for Farm Bureau,” says Traci van der Ploeg, Curry County F&LB Secretary. “He’s spent numerous hours traveling to Santa Fe, Albuquerque, and Las Cruces. He has been instrumental in assuring the success of our county board and is adept at bridging the gap between our younger and older members.”
“Mr. Myrick is extremely deserving of this award recognizing the time and expertise he shares with New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau,” says Chad Smith, NMF&LB CEO. “Our organization would cease to exist without dedicated volunteers such as Steve and we’re thankful for his involvement.” Page 4
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Winter 2022
Awards, Recognition, Education and Entertainment Recognized as Publishers of the Year were Scot and Lisa Stinnett. For close to thirty years, Scot and Lisa have kept rural readers informed of important community and agricultural news. To recognize their contributions as publishers of the De Baca County News and the Clovis Livestock Market News, the New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau honored the Stinnetts as their 2021 Publishers of the Year. Based in Fort Sumner, the De Baca County News has served county residents for more than 120 years. The Stinnetts purchased the paper in 1992 and continue to operate it today. After their move to Fort Sumner, the Stinnetts co-founded the Clovis Livestock Market News which serves the livestock industry in New Mexico and West NMF&LB First VP Larry Reagan, Lisa and Scot Stinnett Texas. Four times per year they publish the Clovis LivePublishers of the Year, and NMF&LB CEO Chad Smith stock Horse Quarterly in conjunction with the Clovis Horse Sale. Prior to the move to Fort Sumner, the Stinnetts were employed at the Portales News-Tribune; Scot as the editor and Lisa on the business side. A native of Portales, Scot grew up at the News-Tribune where worked at virtually every level of the News-Tribune operation, starting as a substitute paper boy and eventually being named editor. A native of Carlsbad, Lisa came to Portales to compete for the Eastern New Mexico University rodeo team in 1986, qualifying for two College National Finals Rodeos. She began working part-time in the News-Tribune circulation department as a college student and moved up to full-time in the business office. The couple met at the News-Tribune and tied the knot in 1989. MyKenna Motes “We’re so grateful for publishers like Scot and Lisa who value our rural communities and work so hard to keep farmers and ranchers informed,” says Chad Smith, NMF&LB CEO. “We are honored to present them with this award in recognition of their excellent publications.” Also recognized were our top four YF&R Discussion meet winners. The meet was the culmination of regional discussion meets and a qualifier round before narrowing down to the final four contestants. In first place was MyKenna Motes of Cliff, second was Wylie Schwebach of Moriarty, Jordan Wilton from Fort Sumner was third and Silver City’s Sarah Gardner was fourth. Wylie Schwebach
Page 5
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Jordan Wilton
Sarah Gardner
Winter 2022
The discussion meet is not meant to be a debate, but rather simulates a committee meeting where discussion and active participation are expected from each participant. This competition is evaluated on an exchange of ideas and information on a pre-determined topic. Participants build basic discussion skills, develop a keen understanding of important agricultural issues, and explore how groups can pool knowledge to reach consensus and solve problems. There were five possible topics and the one chosen for this discussion was “As the world population increases, so will the need for renewable resources. On a local level and across the globe, how can Farm Bureau help farmers and ranchers continue to increase their efficiency in the use of valuable resources and transition to “Green Energy” practices on their farm or ranch? “We’re so proud of all of these students and pleased we were able to host this forum,” says Russell Johnson, a rancher from Luna County who is Chair of the YF&R Committee. “They were incredibly knowledgeable about the topic and were very persuasive in their presentation of the facts. We look forward to many of them returning to compete next year.” Also recognized were Farm Bureau Financial Services agents from the Roadrunner Agency. FBFS has a contest every year called “Raise the Steaks” which is designed to drive membership and each agent in the winning agency receives a case of New Mexico grown steaks. “Farm Bureau Financial Services is another one of our vital supporters and as you know we are a membership driven organization that relies heavily upon our insurance agents to grow our membership,” says Chad Smith. “It is through their efforts that we are able to do what we do and we thank all of them for their hard work and dedication to growing New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau.” Speaking of growing membership, NMF&LB would like FBFS Regional VP Jim Dipoma, Chad Smith, Agency Manager Steven Lorenzen, Mark Krueger, Larry Marshall and Kevin Branum to recognize Taos County F&LB for being the first to Chad Smith, Mario Trujillo and Francisco Hatay
reach quota. Congratulations to the entire county board, led by President Mario Trujillo, for your efforts in recruiting and retention.
Members who are voting delegates were busy as they considered a slate of resolutions proposed by the grassroots membership. They helped determine the policies which will guide the organization as it advocates for legislation that will be beneficial for the state’s agricultural community. “Policy development is at the heart of New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau,” says NMF&LB CEO Chad Smith. “Farmers and ranchers from all corners of the state come together to discuss issues they’re experiencing at the local level. Their proposals, if approved by the delegates, become our policy.” In response to President Biden’s 30x30 initiative, which was followed up by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s 30x30 executive order, several counties proposed resolutions which were coalesced into this policy. “We do not support a 30x30 initiative at the state or national level that will negatively impact the agriculture industry. We support voluntary and incentive-based approaches to conservation. Further, the opportunity to provide input must be afforded on the development and implementation of these efforts. We support producer and local input and oppose a top-down development approach.” Recognizing that agritourism is a growing industry in New Mexico, but that liability issues were hampering its growth, De Baca County F&LB proposed a resolution stating that “We support legislation that exempts agritourism from liability that arises due to accidents occurring from common on-farm hazards such as stepping in a hole etc.” Ranchers in De Baca County were also concerned about recent anti-animal ag measures in other states. A newly passed resolution states “We oppose legislation or regulations that limit a producer’s right to practice animal husbandry according Page 6
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Winter 2022
to industry standards and practices, including initiatives, referendums, or legislation that creates standards above sound veterinary science and practices.” Curry County F&LB members wanted to address potential regulations regarding greenhouse gases and livestock. Delegates responded by passing a resolution declaring “We oppose any attempt to regulate emissions from livestock.” Valencia County F&LB proposed this resolution that reflects their position at the urban/rural interface. “We support policies that ensure the resiliency of New Mexico’s rural communities.” Together there were 29 proposed resolutions that were passed and now become official policy.
President Craig Ogden, First VP Larry Reagan, and CEO Chad Smith
The Annual Meeting also marked the end of service for a State Board member and two committee members. Andy Ellett, Chair of the Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee, stepped down and was replaced by Russell Johnson. Connie Rooks took the place of Women’s Leadership Comittee Chair Anita Hand, and Kim Miller of Union County was elected to fill the District I vacancy as Burl brown retired. We appreciate the time and dedication these members devoted to NMF&LB. Below is an introduction to our new representatives.
Russell Johnson I was born and raised on my family’s ranch southwest of Deming. I graduated from New Mexico State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Animal Science in 2010. I served five years in the United States Border Patrol before returning to the ranch in 2016. My wife Brandy and I have two children we are raising with a deep love for agriculture. I’d like to build on our foundation of success by growing our program through greater involvement at the district and state level. We welcome young families who would like to represent the ag community. Page 7
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Connie Rooks I am the daughter of George Jackson, Jr and the late Nancy Jackson. I am a fourth generation New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau member and fifth generation rancher from Grant County. My husband Stewart and I have two children, Calvin Rooks and Kelsey Lavender (Zach) and three grandchildren, Callie Rooks, George Wyatt (GW), and Augustus (Gus) Jackson Lavender. I have been a member of NMF&LB for 34 years and part of this committee for six years. My goal is to help our members gain leadership skills and continue to advocate for New Mexico agriculture.
Kim Miller My husband Red and I run a cow/calf and yearling operation north and south of Grenville, along with our kids, Annalisa, JC, and Hadley - when they are home from college and FFA activities! It is an honor to follow my Farm Bureau mentor, Burl Brown, under whom I serve as VP of Union County F&LB, and I am very proud to represent District I. I look forward to being involved with NMFLB, knowing it is more and more important that we, as agriculturists on the ground, be aware of the issues facing our industry. Winter 2022
NM Ag in the Classroom Teacher Team o the Year Announced At Annual Meeting
NM Farm & Livestock Bureau Foundation Board Members Help Honor Ag in the Classroom Teacher Team of the Year: Pictured from right: Larry Reagan, Britney Lardner, Kate Porterfield, Susan Schipull, Traci Curry, Craig Ogden, Jim Ellett, Fayth Franzoy, Patty Waid, Tamara Fitzgerald-Ludwig
The Wilson Middle School Wildcat Blooms Garden Program began 10 years ago on a dusty, trash-filled lot. After a lot of hard work on the part of the garden elective teacher, Susan Schipull, and community volunteer and garden administrator, Kate Porterfield, a flourishing edible garden space took shape, and a multifaceted garden program had emerged. For their exhaustive efforts, they have been honored as the New Mexico Ag in the Classroom Teachers of the Year, at the recent annual meeting of the New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau. Click here for more.
2021 NEW HORIZON AWARD FROM AFBF During the NMF&LB Annual meeting, the leadership team was finally able to present Britney Lardner with her well-earned award in person! “Breakfast with Brit” garnered New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau a 2021 New Horizon Award from the American Farm Bureau Federation. The award, which honors state Farm Bureaus with the most innovative new programs, is presented annually at the AFBF Annual Convention. Unfortunately, the convention was held virtually therefore Britney didn't get to accept the award in person until the meeting in November. Click here to learn more.
OUTGOING NMF&LB FOUNDATION BOARD MEMBERS RECEIVE THANK YOU FOR THEIR SERVICE
YOU ARE A CUT ABOVE! Specially engraved cutting boards were given to outgoing NMF&LB Foundation Board Members, Andy Ellett, and Patricia Hunt, for their dedication to agricultural literacy and their time and service to the Foundation Board.
LIVE AUCTION DONATION FOR NM AG IN THE CLASSROOM
The live auction at the NMF&LB Annual Meeting Awards Banquet was a huge success. Joe Boulware volunteered his auctioneer expertise and artist Robert "Shoofly" Shufelt donated a signed print titled "The All Day Strength of An Honest Horse" that garnered many hopeful bids. The winning bid went to Sam and Amanda Myrick- Bergamo for $2,500. All proceeds earned from the live auction will benefit NM Ag in the Classroom programming.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR PER DIEM DONATION
Pictured: Sam and Amanda Myrick- Bergamo
New Mexico Agriculture in the Classroom is pleased that Intrepid Potash has become a sponsor of NMAITC. Intrepid Potash’s support will fund classroom presentations, educator workshops, and teacher trainings on how to incorporate agriculture and food literacy concepts in K-12 New Mexico classrooms. Intrepid Potash, Inc. is a mining company that engages in the delivery of potassium, magnesium, sulfur, and salt. Intrepid serves the agriculture, organics, animal feed, industrial, and oilfield solutions industries. Intrepid operates three solar evaporation mines in Wendover and Moab, Utah and Carlsbad, New Mexico. The company was founded in January 2000 and is headquartered in Denver, CO.
Patrick Torres Burl Brown Leon & Betty Hemann Earlene Ellett Bud Deerman
Wells Fargo recently became a sponsor of New Mexico Agriculture in the Classroom (NMAITC). The support will fund eLearning educational initiatives on the NMAITC website, the development of agricultural virtual field trips for use by New Mexico teachers, and increase the number of free educational presentations and workshops geared to Pre-K-grade 12 New Mexico teachers to increase their awareness of agriculture. The grant is being funded through the Wells Fargo Foundation, which is committed to building an inclusive, sustainable recovery for all through a focus on opening pathways to economic advancement, championing safe, affordable homes, empowering small businesses to thrive, and enabling a just, low-carbon economy. Wells Fargo, with 65 branches and more than 850 employees in New Mexico, is a diversified, community-based financial services company that provides banking, investment and mortgage products and services, as well as consumer and commercial finance.
We are grateful that Pattern Energy, the largest renewable energy developer in the state of New Mexico, has become a premier sponsor of New Mexico Agriculture in the Classroom (NMAITC). Pattern Energy is one of the world’s largest private renewable energy companies, with large operating and development footprints in the United States, Canada, and Japan. Headquartered in the United States, our global operational portfolio includes 30 utility-scale renewable energy facilities. Our business is guided by a commitment to safety, serving our customers, protecting the environment, strengthening communities and creating value for our stakeholders. We provide low-cost power to millions of people around the world, and as an industry leader with one of the most experienced teams in the business, our company is well-positioned to continue delivering high quality wind, solar, transmission and energy storage projects for years to come.
"RIGHT THIS VERY MINUTE" NMAITC Ag Literacy Project
"R E G A R D LE S S OF TH E W E A TH E R
AG STILL HAPPENS"
CLASSROOM PRESENTATIONS K-5 teachers, bring agriculture into your classroom by requesting a visit! We will connect you with volunteers in your area who are trained and ready. You will keep the book for your own classroom library for further learning opportunities.
ABOUT THE BOOK "Right This Very Minute" is a tableto-farm look at where our food comes from. Each page shares a glimpse of the many areas in agriculture and how vast it is, how the weather plays a role, and how hard farmers and ranchers work to keep it all growing safely.
VOLUNTEER TRAININGS FFA, 4-H, and volunteer groups or individuals are encouraged to participate in this year's Ag Literacy Project. You will get to advocate for ag, teach about the water cycle, and connect with your country Farm and Livestock Bureau. Request a training.
Presented:
Dexter FFA Trained and Ready: Hagerman FFA Artesia FFA Centennial FFA Sigma Alpha NMSU Sorority
Visit our Ag Literacy Project page to learn more!
Preserving New Mexico’s Agricultural Past The New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum By Dalene Hodnett, Director of Communications and Media Relations Located Located on 47 acres complete with historical buildings, tractors, barns and a blacksmith shop, the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum in Las Cruces offers a window into New Mexico’s 4,000-year agricultural history, while also sharing the stories of current food producers. The museum was the brainchild of past New Mexico Secretary of Agriculture William Stephens who feared that the state was losing not just artifacts and archival materials to other museums, but that the stories of everyday farmers and ranchers were not being honored. Together with Gerald Thomas, who was then president of New Mexico State University, meetings were held with the ag community and political leaders from across the state to garner interest in, and funding for, an agricultural museum. Gerald Thomas, and the two worked for several years with agricultural producers and other interested individuals and groups from around the state to build support and momentum for the project of creating a museum. The New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs agreed to house the museum and blacksmith deomonstration ground broke in May of 1995. The museum offers demonstrations, hosts special events such as the blessing of the fields, a gem and mineral show, a New Mexico food and gift market and their ever-popular Cowboy Days. The main building contains 24,000 square feet of exhibit space ranging in topics from irrigation methods of indigenous peoples to a Spanish colonial section featuring a rendition of an adobe home circa 1815. Another permanent exhibit is the Mercantile exhibit which allows visitors to experience what it was like to go shopping 100 years ago. The museum also offers online exhibits which can be found here. You can learn about life in the Tularosa Basin before and after WW II by visiting Home on the Range: From Ranches to Rockets. Or take a virtual tour of Livestock on the South 20 where you’ll meet their ponies and learn about the museum’s seven breeds of cattle, their Navajo-Churro and Debouillet sheep and the Holstein cow. Guests will also likely encounter an art show while visiting the museum. Currently they are hosting works by Sue Nichols, a native New Mexican and member of a fifth-generation farm and ranch family. “An Enchanted Vision: The Artistic Celebration of Farming and Ranching in New Mexico” features 30 oil paintings, watercolors and stained glass pieces. According to the museum “Nichols’ art portrays a historical reflection of agrarian and indigenous New Mexico, ranging from depictions of past generations and days gone by to present-day youth engaged in agricultural endeavors.” The show will be on display through March 2022. I recently caught up with Heather Reed, who was hired as the executive director in November 2020, and “Windmill Sunset” Sue Nichols Page 12
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Winter 2022
had a chance to ask her some questions. • As Director of the museum, what are your goals in the coming years? In the past, museums have been “cabinets of curiosity” and a place that you go only once as a student on a field trip. I want the New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum to be a community center. I want to see familiar faces in our galleries and on the grounds. The museum should feel like home to everyone in the state. It’s a place for their 4-H club to meet, for their family to have a regular weekend outing, and for local groups to volunteer. The museum is more than a repository for indigenous pithouse memories and heirlooms. It’s a living, breathing place for people of various backgrounds to gather and share in their collective identity as New Mexicans. • How important is local community engagement and how do you hope to achieve it? A museum can’t be its best self without community engagement. Artifacts and cultural history are only as important as the value placed on it by the community. I’d like to see the staff and I get out into the community and around the state. Let our neighbors tell us what they’d like to see at the museum and what they find valuable. The past year or more of social distancing has made networking difficult, so my personal goal is to network more and make more connections. • What is your favorite part of the museum? My favorite part of the museum is that it’s so different than the standard definition of a museum; it’s a hands-on, immersive experience of our lives. This museum boasts live demonstrations of trades and skills from our ancestors kept alive by volunteers. It has a herd of livestock with farmhands and cowboys standing by to answer the public’s questions while they work with the animals. Our educators host workshops for anyone wanting to get a hands-on experience or try a new skill. The exhibits describe the past but tell a story using artifacts that many guests will recognize as their grandfather’s tools. This museum memorializes the past but it’s a past that is deeply engrained in the present. The visitors can directly see themselves in the story being told rather than a barrier of hundreds of years and an unrelatable lifestyle. • Do you see new areas for growth? Everything and everyone can and should continue to grow. The past two years have changed the way museums operate and how we as museum professionals interact with our visitors. We’re still figuring out what museums look like in a Covid-world, but it’s given us opportunities to reinvent how we live and learn. We’ll continue to evolve along with our visitors and find a way to operate that meets everyone’s interests and needs. • What does the museum offer for various audiences – families, art fans, others? The museum has everything from art to farm equipment and everything “country” in-between. There’s something for everyone to enjoy at the museum. We currently offer children’s programs on Saturday mornings, we have online tutorials/demonstrations, and tours for schools and adult groups. We’re slowly bringing back workshops and programs within the guidance of our Covid Safe Practices. We’re also planning several events for this upcoming year, so watch social media and our website for opportunities to get involved! If preserving New Mexico’s agricultural tradition is a cause dear to your heart, you can support the New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum’s education programs by obtaining one of their specialty license plates. The plate costs $37 annually in addition to your regular vehicle registration. From this fee, $25 goes to the Museum to help support its educational mission. For more information, ask about the plate at your local state Motor Vehicle Department office. Page 13 • New Mexico Farm & Ranch Winter 2022
Jonas Moya Appointed as State Executive Director of New Mexico Farm Service Agency The Biden Administration recently appointed Jonas Moya as the new State Executive Director (SED) for the USDA New Mexico Farm Service Agency (FSA). Moya joined the New Mexico FSA team on Oct. 11, 2021. “Individuals selected to serve as FSA State Executive Directors are incredible public servants who have a proven track record when it comes to their commitment to advance their states and communities,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Each will serve on the frontlines, carrying out USDA’s mission at the state level and ensuring the voice of each and every USDA customer is heard. We are fortunate to have each of these talented individuals at this critical time for farmers and producers and rural communities across America.” Born and raised on his grandmother’s farm and cattle ranch in Tucumcari, New Mexico, Moya is a fourth-generation agriculturist with deep roots in New Mexico’s diverse agriculture industry. Most recently, Moya served as the Executive Director for New Mexico Cattle Grower’s Association (NMCGA). Prior to NMCGA, he was the Civic Engagement & Policy Manager at New Mexico First, an organization dedicated to building consensus on critical issues facing the state. Moya holds a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics and Business from New Mexico State University. As SED, Moya will be responsible for overseeing the delivery of FSA programs to agricultural producers in New Mexico. These commodity, conservation, credit, and disaster assistance programs ensure a safe, affordable, abundant, and nutritious food, fiber, and fuel supply for consumers. “The State Executive Director is a pivotal leadership position for the Agency and for the agricultural producers we serve,” said Marcus Graham, FSA Deputy Administrator for Field Operations. “These leaders, appointed by the Biden-Harris Administration, bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to their respective states. We are happy to have them on board and wish them much success.” The Farm Service Agency serves farmers, ranchers, foresters, and agricultural partners through the effective, efficient, and equitable delivery of federal agricultural programs. The Agency offers producers a strong safety net through the administration of farm commodity and disaster programs. Additionally, through conservation programs, FSA continues to preserve and protect natural resources and provides credit to agricultural producers who are unable to receive private, commercial credit, including targeted loan funds for beginning, underserved, women and military veterans involved in production agriculture. Page 14
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Winter 2022
500
Farm Bureau members receive
$
BONUS CASH *
We are proud to offer exclusive savings to Farm Bureau ® members and be the official truck of the Farm Bureau’s Young Farmers and Ranchers.
ON ELIGIBLE NEW MAVERICK, RANGER, F-150 OR SUPER DUTY ®
FORD MAVERICK
Computer-generated image with available features shown.
Don’t miss out on this offer. Visit FordFarmBureauAdvantage.com today! *Farm Bureau Bonus Cash is exclusively for active Farm Bureau members who are residents of the United States. $500 Bonus Cash on the purchase or lease of an eligible new 2020/2021/2022 Ford Maverick, Ranger, F-150 or Super Duty.® This incentive is not available on F-150 Lightning, F-150 Raptor, F-600, F-650 and F-750 Super Duty®. This offer may not be used in conjunction with most other Ford Motor Company private incentives or AXZD-Plans. Some customer and purchase eligibility restrictions apply. Must be a Farm Bureau member for 30 consecutive days prior to purchase or lease and take new retail delivery from an authorized Ford Dealer’s stock by January 3, 2022. Visit FordFarmBureauAdvantage.com or see your authorized Ford Dealer for qualifications and complete details. Note to dealer: Claim in VINCENT using #37860.
Member Benefits WWW.NMFLB.ORG
NEW MEXICO FARM & LIVESTOCK BUREAU ijIJƟéǂļŞČ
FORD
CALICHE’S FROZEN CUSTARD
Members get $500 Bonus Cash toward the purchase or lease of an eligible new 2020/2021 Ford vehicle! Get big savings when you choose from the comfortable and capable lineup of Ford cars and trucks. www.fordfarmbureauadvantage.com for more details.
30% off with printed coupon. To print coupon go to www.nmflb.org and find this benefit under the Member Benefits tab.
MILE MARKER 7 COFFEE
EDGEWOOD FAMILY DENTISTRY
MM7 Coffee is a locally owned and operated coffee shop in Truth or Consequences. Serving specialty coffee, smoothies, and teas. They also serve bagels and soups. Members receive 10% off all their purchases.
Present your New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau membership card for a 25% discount off regular fees for those without dental insurance benefits. Insured patients can receive 25% off any non-covered procedure. www.edgewoodfamilydentistry.com
Page 16
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
WYNDHAM HOTEL Up to 20% off the “Best Available Rate” at participating locations. www.wyndhamhotels.com Call (877-670-7088) Discount code: 1000000506
REBEL DONUT Defiantly delicious! Locally owned, freshest donuts and best locally roasted-coffee at 2 locations in Albuquerque. Custom orders welcome. No order is too big or small. www.rebeldonut.com 10% off all purchases. Show your membership card for discount.
Winter 2022
FARMESILLA
ENTERPRISE
GRAINGER
FARMesilla is a farm-tomarket store that specializes in all things New Mexico. From produce and skincare to beer and wine. Members receive 10% off all purchases excluding alcohol.
With the largest fleet in North America and a great selection of vehicles. We’ll Pick You Up® Visit www.enterprise.com and apply the code to receive discounts. Pin: NMF Discount: L34D077
Members can save up to 30% off the catalog prices on more than one million products. Count on Grainger to provide the supplies you need to get the job done! Call (800)202-2594 Account 855922068
JOHN DEERE Members receive special access to the John Deere’s GreenFleet TM Loyalty Rewards program, providing members with a free two-year Platinum 2 membership. www.deere.com/farmbureau
BENEFIT HUB SUNGLASS 15% off: Auto Glass Auto Glass Tinting Residential Glass Replacement Commercial Glass Replacement www.sunglassfarmington.com Show your membership card for discount.
Discounts & rewards on: - Local deals - Restaurants - Electronics - Tickets - Travel www.nmflb.benefithub.com
FARM BUREAU FINANCIAL SERVICES
AVIS From premium SUV’s to smart cars, we have the vehicle that fits your needs for up to 25% off. Go to www.avis.com to view our fleet and find #WhatDrivesYou. Call (800)422-3809 Discount A298800
Page 17
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
CRUNCH FITNESS All members receive a special on enrollment offer to jump start your fitness journey with Crunch Fitness. $0 Enrollment www.crunch.com Show your membership card for discount.
Work with just one Farm Bureau agent and one company you can trust. Farm Bureau Member’s Choice can help you protect your home, vehicles and other property with only one deductible per occurrence or accident, no matter how many covered possessions are involved. Visit www.fbfs.com
Winter 2022
HIGH DESERT OUTFITTERS Free bow and arrow rental with basic instruction for the first visit. Stop in and try archery for free today! High Desert Outfitters for all of your archery, muzzleloader and hunting needs. www.highdesert-outfitters.com
BUDGET Members now save up to 25% off budget base rates! Book your car today at www.budget.com/nmflb Discount Y775731
FREE PRESCRIPTION DISCOUNT DRUG CARD - Save up to 75% on prescriptions - Everyone is elegible - Accepted at over 68,000 pharmacies nationwide - Card is pre-activated - No health restrictions - Covers many pet prescriptions - No limits on usage Visit www.nmflb.org/UNA
CHOICE HOTELS Go to www.choicehotels.com to view participating hotels. Call (800)258-2847 Discount code: 00209720
GUSTIN ENTERPRISES Boat & RV Storage Facility in Truth Or Consequences, NM. Discounts available to all New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau members upon presentation of their current membership card. 10% off all rates. (575)740-4293
IN-N-OUT LUBE & WASH Free $5 car wash with full service purchase in Silver City, NM. Please show your membership card to be eligible. (575)538-5911
RUSK’S RUSTIC ROSE @ TRIPLE R RANCH ORGAN MOUNTAIN SOLAR & ELECTRIC A New Mexico company delivering solar installations with over 20 years of diversified solar experience, including NABCEP certified sales and installation teams, certified project management and an installation team 100% of licensed electricians. Serving southern New Mexico within a two hour radius of Las Cruces. Members show current membership card for free offer. (575)288-1792
Page 18
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
FARM BUREAU BANK Farm Bureau members can save big utilizing the services offered through an exclusive program with nationally, recognized Farm Bureau Bank. www.farmbureaubank.com
15% Off everything. Fresh or artificial floral arrangements, house plants, gifts. Custom orders available for weddings and event. La Plata, NM. Show your membership card for discount. (505)360-3482
JIFFY LUBE To receive special account pricing members should ask that their Jiffy Lube account be tied to the New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau account.
Winter 2022
PACKING SERVICES & SUPPLIES 15% off: Mailing services including FedEx, UPS, USPS. Packing services and supplies. Fax, scan, notary, binding, copy services, large format, color and screen printing in Edgewood, NM. Show your membership card for discount. (505)284-2400
WINDMILL RV PARK 10% off all rates. Discounts available to all New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau members upon presentation of their current membership card. Williamsburg, NM. (505)803-3826
FORD 2-YEAR LEASE SWEEPSTAKES All current NMF&LB members are eligible to enter the Ford sweepstakes for a 2-year lease of a new Ford vehicle.
MOUNTAIN MUSIC
NEKO NEKO
1/2 Price strings on Saturday or Sunday. Las Cruces, NM. Show your membership card for discount. (575)525-0603
Neko Neko, Japanese for Cat Cat, serves Taiyaki, a Japanese fish-shaped cake, filled with soft-serve ice cream and topped with sweet treats. Members receive 20% off.
VSP INDIVIDUAL VISION PLANS You now have easy access to affordable Individual Vision Plans from VSP®Vision Care. Here are some reasons to enroll: - Lowest Out-of-pocket Cost - You'll enjoy the lowest out-of-pocket cost in individual vision care, which could save you hundreds on your eye exam and glasses. Plus, you’ll have access to more than $2,500 in additional savings with VSP Exclusive Member Extras including laser vision surgery, contact lenses, and up to 60% savings on hearing aids from TruHearing®. Visit www.nmflb.org to learn more.
BUDGET TRUCK RENTAL Members can now save 20% off Budget Truck Rental consumer rates. Visit BudgetTruck.com/ FarmBureau
HOOK & BULL TRUCKING Members can now save 10% off road base, gravel, river rock, fill dirt, or crushed gravel delivered and spread. Call Travis Andrews at (505) 258.2024
Use the FB Benefits app to search for member discounts in your area. Download by searching for “FB Benefits.” Visit www.nmflb.org for more information. Service and discounts are subject to change without notice. Page 19
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Winter 2022
Patricia Dominguez Named USDA Rural Development Director for New Mexico On October 13th, the Biden Administration announced the appointemnt of Paticia Dominguez as the State Director for USDA’s Rurual Development agency. Dominguez grew up in the rural community of Peñasco in northern New Mexico. After graduating from high school she then went to the University of New Mexico where she received a Bachelor of Science degree. After graduating from UNM she worked in state and county government before working for Senators Bingaman and Heinrich. Dominguez said, her congressional service in Senator Heinrich’s office was especially meaningful because she covered the geographic region in rural northern New Mexico where she was raised. Her firsthand experience living in a rural community helps her understand the challenges facing rural America and the resources that will be needed to build capacity in these areas. Patricia has experience building networks and implementing successful strategies that help rural communities develop scale appropriate ventures that will thrive and have the best chance at success. Patricia has a deep appreciation for New Mexico and will continue to be an advocate for rural communities and strive to improve quality of life and opportunities in underserved areas. RD State Directors serve as the chief executive officer of Rural Development in the states and territories and are tasked with carrying out the mission of rural development to the benefit of everyone in rural America. In conjunction with the guidance and support of the National Office, State Directors are responsible for promoting the mission and strategic goals of Rural Development and provide key leadership to develop and support a productive, diverse, and inclusive state workforce. Dominguez will be in charge of the various funding programs administered by USDA Rural Development including; business, community facilities, housing and water and wastewater programs.
Going to Santa Fe? Please be aware there are new protocols at the Capitol • Before entering the Capitol you will need to provide proof of full vaccination • Firearms are now prevented and you will be screened by metal detectors • Your bags may also be searched • Masks are required throughout the building • Large gatherings at the Rotunda have been cancelled • Access to the first floor of the Capitol, which houses all leadership offices and access to both chambers, will be closed to the public and lobbyists unless an appointment has been made Page 20
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Winter 2022
2022 AFBF
YOUNG FARMERS & RANCHERS
CO M PE TI T I O N AWA R D S
The YF&R program helps young members shape their future and American agriculture through leadership development and personal growth opportunities. Three competitions enable members to showcase their leadership experience, communication skills and successful business plans as they compete against the best of the best from each state Farm Bureau.
As part of the YF&R competitions, the top four competitors in the Achievement Award, Discussion Meet and Excellence in Agriculture areas will receive:
1st
A New Ford Vehicle
3rd
Case IH 40” Combination Roll Cabinet & Top Chest
PLACE
PLACE
(up to a value of $35,000) and paid registration to the AFBF YF&R Leadership Conference in Louisville, Kentucky courtesy of Ford.
and $500 Case IH parts card, courtesy of Case IH, a $2,500 Investing in Your Future cash prize, courtesy of American Agricultural Insurance Company plus $1,850 of Stanley Black & Decker merchandise, courtesy of Stanley Black & Decker.
2nd
Case IH Farmall 50A Tractor
4th
Case IH 40” Combination Roll Cabinet & Top Chest
PLACE
PLACE
courtesy of Case IH.
and a $500 Case IH parts card, courtesy of Case IH.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
Page 21
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
YF&R Competitive Event Ad 2022_converted.indd 1
Winter 2022
11/11/21 12:33 PM
Advocating for Agriculture What to Expect this Session By Tiffany Rivera, NMF&LB Director of Governmental Affairs In just a few short weeks the 2022 legislative session will begin. Although many of us were hoping to return to a “normal” session, it seems like we will still have to adjustment the way we advocate. The session will kick off January 18th at noon and will be held both in person and virtually. This year, we are headed into a 30-day session, which means that legislation will be limited to budgetary items and items on the Governor’s call. The state will be extremely flush with cash as federal COVID monies and increased oil and gas revenues flood our accounts. During the December 3rd meeting of the Legislative Finance Committee, it was reported that the state is anticipating an additional $1.6 billion in new money, which is a roughly 21% increase over last year. The state will also have just over $700 million remaining in federal funds to work with as well. It has been made extremely clear that the Governor will be looking to codify her climate goals during the session. Items on the Governor’s priority list so far include a hydrogen hub, codifying a state goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050, establishing a clean fuel standard, reducing the gross receipts tax, raising the minimum wage for state employees, providing a 7% raise to NM educators, and a proposal for the creation of a conservation bond. Additionally, Senator Sedillo Lopez will look to re-introduce her constitutional green amendment proposal, there are also rumors that a water package may be introduced. Many of the Governor’s priorities, especially the climate provisions, could create large challenges for our state’s agriculture sector and rural communities. There has been a lot of talk across the landscape from Washington D.C., down to our local communities, on how agriculture can play a major role in addressing climate concerns and goals. Private landowners, specifically those involved in agriculture, have a large opportunity to contribute to this effort. However, the entire burden of achieving climate goals must not be placed solely on agriculture. Any approach the state considers that includes agriculture must be voluntary and incentive-based and must include direct input and guidance from our producers regarding development and execution. Our state’s agricultural producers are some of the best natural resource stewards and some of the brightest and most innovative people around. The state cannot not prioritize climate goals over food production and must work to find a meaningful balance. We have witnessed first-hand how fragile our food system is and how a minor disruption can dramatically impact consumers’ choices at the grocery store. Over the last year, our state has been plagued by a severe and prolonged drought, the state’s forests and watersheds are in dire conditions and the threat for wildfire remains strong. The state has struggled in the past to adequately manage and maintain its lands due to a lack of resources and capacity. This year, to try and secure a reliable stream of funding for conservation work, the Governor has proposed a general obligation bond for conservation. General obligation (GO) bonds are used to fund projects relating to aging services, libraries, Page 22
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Winter 2022
education and state buildings, not conservation. GO bonds are funded by property taxes and are only considered during even number years. If a GO bond is approved by the legislature this January, the initiative will be presented to the public for a vote during the November general election. The Governor’s proposed GO bond for conservation is outside of the scope of funding for which bonds have been historically been used. If passed, the Governor’s conservation bond is estimated to cost two dollars per household in increased property taxes over the next 25 years. Although we can appreciate the general intent of a conservation bond; to provide a reoccurring funding source to address natural resource management in the state, we do have serious concerns with this initiative, how vague it is, and how programs will be funded. The bond is estimated to generate $50 million annually which would be utilized as follows: $12 million to the Energy Minerals and Natural Resource Department for conservation easements and forest and watershed restoration projects, $12 million to the Department of Agriculture for soil and water conservation districts and the healthy soils program, $9.5 million to the Economic Development Department for the outdoor equity fund and trail project grants, $7 million to the Environment Department for the river stewardship program, $7 million to Cultural Affairs Department for property conservation, and lastly $2.5 million to the Department of Game and Fish for land acquisitions. The largest concern I see is the $2.5 million for land acquisitions, as well as the conservation easement portion. The state is already having a challenging time adequately managing the lands and natural resources under is current jurisdiction, why would we look to increase that workload? Additionally, we have strong policy which opposes the purchase of private land by government entities as these purchases negatively affect the tax base and often remove agricultural land from production. Continuing with the climate and environmental theme, Senator Sedillo Lopez plans to reintroduce her constitutional green amendment. We anticipate that the bill will be similar to what we saw last year. The bill, through a constitutional amendment, looks to protect the state’s environment for health, safety, and public interest. Additionally, the bill would appoint the state as the trustee of the natural resources, with the responsibility to conserve, protect, and maintain these resources for current and future generations. This comes amid a national movement lead by environmental lawyer Maya K. van Rossum. van Rossum’s goal is to secure constitutional rights by enacting a green amendment in every states’ constitution. Enacting such a broad constitutional amendment will give ultimate authority and power to the state through extremely vague language. The amendment will create uncertainty and could easily be interpreted differently each time we change administrations. The agriculture industry depends heavily on our natural resources. We need certainty and predictability and not a future full of unknowns and increased potential for litigation. As you can see, this upcoming session will be very lively and important even though it is limited in scope. As always, we will need your help and input when working with our legislators at the Capitol. Please keep an eye out for our policy primers which will contain calls to action, important information on bills, and our weekly legislative reports. I encourage every one of you to maintain consistent contact with your legislators throughout the entire session. Make calls, send texts and emails, participate virtually, and most importantly if you are able, join us in Santa Fe to advocate in person. Your physical presence and personal comments really help to emphasize the impacts proposed legislation has on our local communities and the agriculture industry, and I personally enjoy having you by my side. Lastly, as you head to the Capitol in January, we recommend that you grant yourself a little extra planning time to enter the building. Prior to the recent special session, the Legislative Council Service, the group in charge of legislative procedural matters, adopted new policies which are in effect for the upcoming sessions. Although most of the Capitol will be open to the public during the legislative session, there will be a few changes. Before entering the Capitol, you will need to provide proof of full vaccination, next you will be screened by metal detectors (firearms are now prohibited in the Capitol), and lastly, you may experience a bag search. Masks will continue to be required throughout the building and all large gatherings and events inside of the rotunda have been cancelled. Access to the first floor of the Capitol, which houses all leadership offices and access to both chambers, will be closed to the public and lobbyists unless an appointment has been made. In closing, I’d like to emphasize once more how important your participation and advocacy is when it comes to the legislative session. Remember that the Capitol is the people’s house and your voice matters. We must remain strong, persistent, and unified to ensure that the voice of New Mexico agriculture and our rural communities are heard. I look forward to working with you all during the session. Page 23
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Winter 2022
DECEMBER 2021
1209 Mountain Road Place NE, Suite C Albuquerque, New Mexico 87110 505-841-9407 www.NMBeef.com
CHECKOFF PROGRAM
DEAR FELLOW RANCHERS & DAIRY FARMERS: LETTER FROM MATT
Serving as the Chairman of the New Mexico Beef Council for the past two years has been an honor and inspiration for me as well as a challenge. I have been inspired by the creati�ity with which the ���C and Checkoff staff and contractors have continued to provide resources and services for ranchers across our State. The challenge, as every rancher and dairy farmer can attest, is the changing landscape that the pandemic has created for those of us who work the land, and of course the drought. As you read through our Annual Report, I hope you will be as proud as I am to be a rancher and to be a part of the beef industry in New Mexico. I would like to highlight several programs and initiatives from this past year. � The New Mexico Beef Council partnered with New Mexico State University’s Hotel Restaurant Tourism Management to present handson lectures. The students learned about how beef is fabricated, the difference between the �arious cuts and beef grades as well as the taste and texture of grass-fed, organic and grain-fed beef. The students also learned about the beef supply chain and how beef is produced.
CHECKOFF CELEBRATES 3 5 YEARS This year marks the 35th �nni�ersary of the �eef Checkoff. The Checkoff has significantly and positively altered the beef industry’s course, and has brought producers, industry organizations, and stakeholders together with a common purpose: driving demand for beef. In thinking back to the Checkoff�s first ad�ertising campaign that launched in ����, “Beef: Real Food for Real People.”, featuring celebrity James Garner, some of today’s producers might be, a) too young to remember beef�s first celebrity spokesman, or b� perhaps were not even born yet. Regardless of age, the impact the Checkoff has on beef demand, and ultimately our operations, is significant.
SHIPROCK VIRT UAL MARATHON
� Also on the education front, the NMBC has continued a partnership with �ro�tart which is offered by �� high schools and consists of �� programs across the state. ProStart is a national program coordinated by each state’s restaurant trade association to introduce students to career options in the food service and culinary industries. � Sustainability has been on the forefront of our industry. Both the NMBC and Checkoff are presenting fact�based information about ranching and its positive impact on the land. One of our family ranches in New Mexico, the Tim Foote Cattle Co., received national recognition for their ongoing stewardship. I know that there are dozens more ranches doing their own work on sustainability practices to make them more e�cient. � NMBC continues to manage a robust advertising program on radio, and online with digital and social media. We recognize the importance of having our messages on radio stations around the state, and since we receive lots of positive feedback about our radio buys, we think you must like it also. Thank you for your support of the New Mexico Beef Council. Until you have been in the trenches with the Checkoff and Council �ssessment staff, it is hard to appreciate all of the hard work that everyone is doing on our behalf. Be well and God bless you and your families. Matt Ferguson, Chairman, New Mexico Beef Council
The NMBC sponsored the Shiprock “Virtual” Marathon. Team BEEF members Evangeline Natachu, Earlinda Keeswood and Donovan Carlisle all participated in this event. This marathon has been held by the �a�a�o �ation for �� consecuti�e years, making it the oldest and largest marathon in New Mexico, and it has been voted the best marathon in New Mexico too. Although this year was virtual, and runners could choose where they ran, the typical marathon route offers other�worldly �iews of the �olcanic landmark that �uts ���� feet in to the desert sky. The marathon route takes runners on a loop of the pinnacle, while the half route provides stunning views from a slightly further distance. The NMBC is proud to help sponsor a New Mexico legacy.
To learn more visit www.NMBeef.com.
Page 24
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Winter 2022
BEEF HELPS NEW MEXICO KEEP ON TRUCKING Truckers play a critical role in our industry – they help us transport our livestock and they help us keep our retailers and restaurants stocked with delicious beef. We partnered with the Albuquerque Isotopes and the New Mexico Trucking Association to show our truckers some love during the pandemic. John Heckendorn, Robbie and Kenneth McKenzie served up smiles with tasty box lunches that included Rancher’s Melts (sliced roast beef sandwiches with cheese, green chile and condiments) with chips and a cookie. Our good work Kenneth McKenzie struck up a conversation with the UPS driver. Truck drivers were from all was recognized via television interviews and on social media. over the country and from right here in New Mexico.
J UNE BEEF MON TH! June is Beef Month and was celebrated on social and digital media with grilling messages (it was the summer grilling season, after all) as well as information on sustainable beef production. NMBC partnered with the New Mexico Department of Agriculture to develop “grilling tips” videos featuring NMDA’s Ambassador Chefs. The NMBC produced videos featuring New Mexico’s Ute Creek �anch, �egion � �n�ironmental Stewardship Award Winner. The videos were featured on NMBC’s and NMDA’s social media pages.
TIM FOOTE CAT TLE COMPAN Y FEAT URED IN UNITED WE STEAK We caught up with Garrett Foote from the Tim Foote Cattle Company to find out a little about their operation since they were one of a handful of families featured in the national campaign, United We Steak. Tim Foote Cattle Co., located in Texico, N.M., is a backgrounder ranch. The family raises cattle from when they are weaned off of their mother’s and facilitate the transition from grass pasture to a grain diet.
PROSTART LAUNCHES HIGH SCHOOLERS IN TO CULINARY FIELDS The New Mexico Beef Council is a proud sponsor of New Mexico ProStart, administered by the NM Restaurant Association Foundation. This program is a two-year career and technical education program that focuses on teaching culinary art and restaurant management skills in �� high schools across the state. There are �� �roStart programs across our state, with some schools having more than one program. NMBC’s sponsorship includes beef education for teacher training and for student culinarians and includes the “Beef Grant Program”. The Council, through an application process, reimburses teachers up to ��,��� per year for beef, to use in ProStart classes. Information about both of these programs may be found at NMBeef.com.
NEW MEXICO BEEF COUNCIL SUMMARY OF SOURCE AND USE OF FUNDS FEDERAL CHECK-OFF JULY 1, 2020 THRU JUNE 30, 2021
Sources: Carryover From Prior Year
$111,837
8.30%
Check off and Interest
1,235,603
91.70%
1,347,440
100.00%
$617,788
45.84%
Total Sources Uses: Cattlemen’s Beef Promotion & Research Board National Program Investments
39,865
2.96%
261,107
19.38%
87,909
6.52%
121,670
9.03%
0
0.00%
Collections
94,406
7.02%
Capital Outlay
64,317
4.77%
Administration Cost
60,378
4.48%
$1,347,440
100.00%
Promotion Programs (Social Media, Digital & Native Advertising, Retail, Foodservice)
Consumer Information Programs (Health Educators, School Programs, Events)
Producer Communication Industry Information
Total Use
Page 25
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Taos High School Students compete in a ProStart culinary competition
COVID INSPIRES INNOVATIVE MARKETING Many of the NMBC projects each year are “in person” events, like participation in State and County Fairs. COVID protocols eliminated many of these events, so other “COVID safe” programs were launched to include refreshing the website, running three radio campaigns, and beefing up the Council’s digital and social media.
Winter 2022
DECEMBER 2021
1209 Mountain Road Place NE, Suite C Albuquerque, New Mexico 87110 505-841-9407 www.NMBeef.com
ASSESSMENT
NEW MEXICO BEEF COUNCIL PARTNERS WITH NMSU’S HOTEL , RESTAURAN T & TOURISM MANAGEMEN T The New Mexico Beef Council teamed up with New Mexico State University’s Hospitality, Restaurant and Tourism Management (HRTM) for three beef classes that took place at NMSU. The three classes, HRTM 363 Quantity Food Production & Service, and two sections of HRTM 2120 Food Production & Service Fundamentals, were provided lecture and hands-on presentations over three days.
Daniel Chavez, NMBC Beef Specialist, prepares different grades of beef for sampling.
Daniel Chavez and Tom Bertelle, NMBC Beef Specialists, join NMBC Executive Director, Dina Reitzel in presenting to HRTM.
Tom Bertelle and Daniel Chavez, NMBC Center-of-the-Plate Specialists and Beef experts provided hands on training for the students. Sub-primals rib, chuck, and loin were used in the fabrication of cuts and as visual aids. Students were able to taste test cuts to understand grading and beef choices. Two beef videos were played for two of the classes to reinforce fabrication information and examples of the versatility of beef in menuing ideas. Dina Chacón-Reitzel, NMBC Executive Director, presented information about the beef supply chain and sustainable beef production practices.
NMSU Chancellor, Dan Arvizu, culinary students and NMBC Executive Director, Dina Chacón-Reitzel take a quick break from class.
Students were provided “Beef in the Culinary Classroom” binders, developed through NMBC, and supplemental printed resources to support the presentations. The students were all given beef aprons and “The Beef Book”, a beef bible of sorts, and chefs jackets with the NMBC logo. Culinary instructors were provided posters, resources and video presentations which they will be able to use for future classes. The NMSU AgMedia department videotaped the presentations with a focus on using the videos for marketing, promotion, education, and information purposes. The audience for these videos includes traditional and nontraditional college students, potential college students, educators, beef producers, processors, and other food industry professionals. The partnership was featured in the fall issue of the College of ACES magazine.
NEW MEXICO STATE FAIR SPEECH CON TEST
WINNERS
Monet Hunt Senior Winner
The Beef Resource Guide is given to all students and includes information on thermometer calibration, Beef Cuts and other Beef basics.
Remington Hunt Junior Winner
The New Mexico Beef Council was a major sponsor in the first ever NM State Fair Agriculture Speech Contest. Due to COVID, the contest was held virtually. 4-H and FFA contestants were given a choice of ag issues to present. Winners were awarded scholarships to attend NMSU and other prizes. The contests were replicated at the Southern NM State Fair and Eastern NM State Fair. The students learned in-depth about industry challenges and opportunities and developed their presentation and public speaking skills. Students are busy preparing for future in-person contests to be held across New Mexico.
To learn more visit www.NMBeef.com.
Page 26
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Winter 2022
S O CI A L M EDI A R EP ORT Digital Reach
10,971,026
Total Clicks
14,402
Click Thru Rate
.13%
Social Media Posts
307
Social Media Reach
57,809
NMBC Website Total Sessions
24,659
Total Users
21, 773
MATT FERGUSON, CHAIRMAN FEDERATION DIRECTOR
Total Page Views
36,449
PRODUCER, CARRIZOZO
Users acquired by display ads
2020 -2021 DI R EC TORS
575-491-9025
8,907
ZITA LOPEZ, VICE CHAIRMAN FEEDER, SPRINGER 575-447-1117
RADIO REACHES BEEF CONSUMERS
SUSIE JONES, SECRETARY
The NMBC ran 2 radio campaigns using only rural radio stations around New Mexico. The goal was to reach beef consumers in markets around New Mexico with both a nutrition message and a sustainability message. Ads were purchased on 35 stations, from Alamogordo to Taos, with a total of more than 1,500 radio spots. The Council is fortunate to have a strong relationship with radio stations across the state so that the stations provide bonus spots each time paid commercials are run.
NEW MEXICO BEEF COUNCIL SUMMARY OF SOURCE AND USE OF FUNDS COUNCIL ASSESSMENT
DAIRY PRODUCER, VEGUITA 505-459-8732 DAN BELL PRODUCER, CORONA 575-799-0763 COLE GARDNER PRODUCER, YESO 575-910-5952 JOHN HECKENDORN PUREBRED PRODUCER, MORIARTY 505-379-8212
JULY 1, 2020 THRU JUNE 30, 2021
JAMES HILL
Council Assessment Total Sources
100.00%
$640,228
100.00%
1,473
0.23%
PRODUCER, CROWNPOINT
0
0.00%
505-860-5859
37,936
5.93
0
0.00%
15,000
2.34%
0
0.00%
25,619
4.00%
9,731
1.52%
$89,759
14.02%
$550,469
85.98%
Uses: Refunds of Council Assessment National Program Investments Promotion Programs
(Health Educators, School Programs, Events)
Producer Communication Industry Information Collections Administration Cost Total Use Carry forward to Next year
575-993-9950 MARJORIE LANTANA
(Social Media, Digital & Native Advertising, Retail, Foodservice)
Consumer Information Programs
FEEDER, MESILLA PARK
$640,228
KENNETH MCKENZIE PRODUCER, ENCINO 575-760-3260 BILL KING, N.M. CATTLEMAN’S BEEF BOARD REPRESENTATIVE PRODUCER, MORIARTY 505-220-9909
BEEF EN TERS VICTORY LANE
CONFIDEN T COOKING
The Federation of State Beef Councils, on behalf of the Beef Checkoff, partnered with Daytona International Speedway to sponsor the Beef. It’s What’s for Dinner. 300. in February 2021. The race served as a unique opportunity to engage with consumers through social media, television advertising, public relations and event promotions. When the checkered flag dropped, driver Austin Cindric in the number 22 Team Penske Ford claimed victory and celebrated with the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. 300 trophy and a cooler full of Tomahawk Steaks.
WITH BEEF
SUMMER SIZZLES To keep beef’s rightful position as king of the grill, the summer grilling campaign ran from National Beef Burger Day in May through Labor Day utilizing a variety of platforms to connect with consumers. Whether it was native advertising, social media, television or radio, shoppers knew the right cuts to select for their BBQ and the best way to cook them for backyard success. An interactive map on the BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com website also featured beef grilling favorites and producer stories from across all 50 states. Page 28 • New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Confident Cooking with Beef is a comprehensive guide to selecting, preparing and cooking beef. Created by beef professionals for beef enthusiasts, this resource gives consumers added confidence when working with beef and sharing beef content. Originally published in the 1990s, and updated over the years, the brochure was recently revised, and more than 120,000 copies were printed at the request of SBCs to educate consumers on the benefits of beef. With tips and tricks, comprehensive cooking lessons and timing charts, the publication provides the tools necessary to ensure beef uccess every time. The brochure also provides educational information about the value of beef’s nutrition and the industry’s positive impact on environmental stewardship, social responsibility and economic viability.
Winter 2022
FEDERATION FUNDED PROJECTS The Federation of State Beef Councils builds a larger, more impactful, coordinated plan that can be executed as a partnership between the Federation and individual State Beef Councils (SBCs). Over 50% of the Federation’s annual budget supplements tactics within Authorization Requests (ARs) approved by the Beef Promotion Operating Committee (BPOC). Supplementing these tactics helps the national Checkoff program have a larger impact on consumer demand. In 2021, the Federation contributed $6 million toward projects that supplement the approximately $40 million national plan funded by the BPOC for promotion, research, consumer information and industry information. Specific programs made possible by SBC contributions to the Federation include, but are not limited to:
PROMOTION - $3, 3 54 ,000
INDUSTRY INFORMATION - $800,000
Conducted Beef Substitutes 2.0 which worked with celebrity chefs during seasonal moments to rework iconic dishes into beef dishes, such as Beef Parmesan.
The Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) program developed a Daily Biosecurity Plan for Disease Prevention template which helps cattle producers implement daily biosecurity measures on their operations and began work on the National Beef Quality Audit, which occurs every five years.
Launched a sustainability campaign highlighting how beef farmers and ranchers around the country are implementing land-conserving, award-winning environmental efforts, as well as an interactive map on BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com featuring the sustainability work of producers in each state. Kicked off summer grilling with National Beef Burger Day; hosted a Summer of Giveaways and highlighted grilling recipes from across the country on an interactive map. Sponsored the first Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. 300 at Daytona International.
CONSUMER INFORMATION $900,000
RESEARCH - $7 75,000 Safety – focused on Salmonella contamination in lymph nodes and efforts to reduce food safety concerns in beef. Nutrition – focused on understanding beef preferences during infant complementary feeding. Product Quality – focused on sensory and chemical characterization of ground beef and plant-based alternative proteins, plus understanding the influence of beef x dairy cross on sub-primal yields and muscle shape. Product Quality – focused on sensory and chemical characterization of ground beef and plantbased alternative proteins, plus understanding the influence of beef x dairy cross on sub-primal yields and muscle shape.
Developed the Beef in the Early Years campaign after the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Women Infants and Children’s Program (WIC), and for the first time ever, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommended beef for infants and toddlers.
PEDIATRICIAN OU TREACH
CAT TLEMEN’S BEEF BOARD
EXTENDS EARLY YEARS
FISCAL YEAR 2021
CON TEN T THE AMERICAN
UNAUDITED EXPENDIT URES
The American Academy of Pediatrics, the Women Infants and Children’s Program and now for the first time ever, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend introducing solid foods, like beef, to infants and toddlers, in order to pack in every bite with protein, iron, zinc and choline. Yet, many physicians lack awareness of the latest science, and many parents still need practical tips for how to introduce beef safely and nutritiously into their young child’s diet.
Promotion ........................................................................ $8,641,332
The Beef in the Early Years campaign focused on educating physicians and other health professionals on the importance of feeding beef to babies as an early complementary food and providing them with tools to support parents with the introduction of beef. With support from the Federation of State Beef Councils and several individual state beef councils, educational toolkits and parent resources were provided to a nationwide network of pediatrician offices and childbirth centers. Page 29 • New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Research .......................................................................... $8,838,176 Consumer Information ...................................................$8,160,511 Industry Information ..................................................... $3,138,923 Foreign Marketing .......................................................... $8,479,193 Checkoff Communications ................................................$171,679 Producer Communications ........................................... $1,568,937 Program Evaluation .......................................................... $263,087 Program Development ......................................................$316,474 USDA .................................................................................... $695,634 Administration ..................................................................$1,502,147 Total FY 2021 expenses ............................................... $41,776,093
Winter 2022
Smith from page 2 Part of our support, or lack thereof, goes back to our grassroots. We are a non-partisan organization and we strive to support policy that advances agriculture, and oppose that which harms our members, regardless of the sponsoring party. The infrastructure bill was bipartisan in nature and promises to help all New Mexicans, particularly in rural communities where better roads and bridges are desperately needed. Additionally, the bill provides for significantly expanding access to high-speed broadband, allowing rural students to achieve equal footing with their urban counterparts. The infrastructure bill also provides monies for repairing and increasing water storage in the West. This is particularly important after this past summer’s drought conditions. And finally, the infrastructure bill does not raise taxes on farm, ranch and dairy families who are especially vulnerable now due to the aftershocks of the COVID pandemic such as supply chain issues, and volatile markets. This bill helps keep our food producers in business and our food supply chain secure. The Build Back Better Act however is the complete opposite. It is highly partisan, having passed the House on November 19th with no Republican votes. And while the bill does contain funding for resource conservation measures and agricultural research, the benefits are far outpaced by significant tax increases that would negatively impact middle-class American food producers. Although scaled back from the original price tag of 3.5 trillion to 2.2 trillion, the Congressional Budget Office still estimates it would increase the federal budget deficit by $367 billion over 10 years. The Treasury Department says spending will be offset by $127 billion in new revenue collected by boosting federal tax enforcement and raising taxes. We feel the price it too high, and the benefits too few, to support the Build Back Better Act.
Duvall from page 2 While high demand and supply chain disruptions impact price and availability in some areas, it’s essential to know that American agriculture remains strong. Farmers are still farming and working to deliver the food, fuel, and fiber our country depends on. Still, there’s no denying the challenges that remain before us. Although Americans are paying more for their food on average, most farmers and ranchers haven’t seen these gains on the farm. Only eight cents of each dollar spent on food goes to cover production costs on the farm. The remaining 92 cents covers food processing, packaging, transportation, distribution, food service preparation, and marketing costs. Some farmers have received higher prices for their products, but those gains are often eaten up with increased costs to grow crops and raise livestock. Earlier this year, Farm Bureau identified several things the Biden Administration could do to help alleviate supply chain challenges in both the short and long term. Based on the policies created by our members, we made recommendations that would help address the problems we are experiencing today to secure our supply chain for the future. Our recommendations spurred a series of conversations with multiple federal agencies and inspired additional communications from other agricultural organizations. Our suggestions included increasing coordination with agricultural haulers to provide greater flexibility to deliver essential products, promoting greater freight-rail competition, addressing the farm labor crisis across the country and expanding global markets for American agricultural products. We also asked the administration to address the growing number of empty shipping containers departing U.S. ports. Typically, these containers would be filled with ag products destined for international markets, but because of shortages in consumer goods, shipping companies can make more money by rapidly sending these empty containers back to ports around the world to be filled with more goods coming into the U.S. Solving the challenges in our supply chain and the economy as we continue to recover from the pandemic will not be easy. We stand ready to help in any way we can to ensure a return to the elusive “new normal.” We are committed to working with members of Congress, the administration, and our industry partners to find and implement solutions to keep costs down, increase the availability of products, and ensure Americans can get back to focusing on life beyond COVID. Through it all, there is one message I hope breaks through to every American, no matter your profession, hometown or political persuasion: farmers and ranchers remain dedicated every single day to our mission of delivering the food, fiber and fuel needed to get America back on track. Page 30
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Winter 2022
The easiest way to save on your prescriptions. Save up to 80% on prescription medications.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS Save up to 80% on prescriptions Free pharmacy coupon card Accepted at over 68,000 pharmacies nationwide Discounts on brand & generic drugs No restrictions & HIPAA compliant Page 31
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Winter 2022
Ogden from page 2 If you were to conduct a survey of the general public across the United States, asking what comes to mind when you think of fall, most likely you would get answers such as pumpkin spice lattes and candles, sitting around the fire pit and Halloween decorations. Sadly, not many people think of fall as the time of harvest and the fact that the American farmer is working around the clock to finish up the season in order to get their products from the fields to the consumer’s hands. Why don’t most of the consumers appreciate the hard work that is given to make all of this possible? Additionally, the true meaning of Thanksgiving is being overshadowed by Black Friday and who can get their Christmas decorations up first. I remember a time when everyone would get together to celebrate and share the harvest with each other and give thanks not only to the Lord, but to give thanks to the people which made all of this possible. We all need to remember there is an entire process or chain of events to get items in the hands of the consumers; that it starts with the people that grow and raise them. In a time when you can get almost any fruit or vegetable any time of the year, consumers have lost touch with the reality of harvest and peak seasons. I do feel New Mexico is the exception. You can ask any New Mexican what crop is harvested beginning late summer through fall and you can be certain they know it is chile! They know that is the time they can expect the distinct smell of chile roasting outside of grocery stores and farm stands. Whether an avid fan of green or red, it was time to stock up for the year. We each have our favorite farm and we will drive hours to get what we think is “the best”. This Thanksgiving let us remember these words by Paul Harvey, So God Made a Farmer. “And on the 8th day, God looked down on his planned paradise and said, “I need a caretaker” -- so God made a Farmer. God said, “I need somebody willing to get up before dawn, milk cows, work all day in the fields, milk cows again, eat supper, then go to town and stay past midnight at a meeting of the school board” -- so God made a Farmer. “I need somebody with arms strong enough to rustle a calf and yet gentle enough to deliver his own grandchild; somebody to call hogs, tame cantankerous machinery, come home hungry, have to wait lunch until his wife’s done feeding visiting ladies, then tell the ladies to be sure and come back real soon -- and mean it” -- so God made a Farmer. God said, “I need somebody willing to sit up all night with a newborn colt, and watch it die, then dry his eyes and say, ‘Maybe next year.’ I need somebody who can shape an ax handle from a persimmon sprout, shoe a horse with a hunk of car tire, who can make harness out of haywire, feed sacks and shoe scraps; who, planting time and harvest season, will finish his forty-hour week by Tuesday noon, and then pain’n from tractor back,’ put in another seventy two hours” -- so God made a Farmer. God had to have somebody willing to ride the ruts at double speed to get the hay in ahead of the rain clouds, and yet stop in mid-field and race to help when he sees the first smoke from a neighbor’s place -- so God made a Farmer. God said, “I need somebody strong enough to clear trees and heave bails, yet gentle enough to tame lambs and wean pigs and tend the pink-combed pullets, who will stop his mower for an hour to splint the broken leg of a meadow lark.” It had to be somebody who’d plow deep and straight and not cut corners; somebody to seed, weed, feed, breed and rake and disc and plow and plant and tie the fleece and strain the milk and replenish the self-feeder and finish a hard week’s work with a five-mile drive to church; somebody who would bale a family together with the soft strong bonds of sharing, who would laugh, and then sigh, and then reply, with smiling eyes, when his son says that he wants to spend his life “doing what dad does” -- so God made a Farmer.” Do justly, love mercy, walk humbly. AgFest is back and better than ever! Mark your cal-
endar for Tuesday, January 25th, when you’ll visit with legislators, enjoy delicious New Mexico foods and
catch up with friends from across the ag community.
We are looking forward to seeing you at this celebra-
tion of the people and food of New Mexico agriculture. From 7:00 - 8:00pm the event will be exclusively for legislators and booth representatives, from 8:00 -
9:00pm all ticketed guests are welcome. We’re distributing a limited amount of tickets, so first come-first
served. NMF&LB members, please check with your county board for tickets. Page 32
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Winter 2022
Page 33
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Winter 2022
I know I need life insurance, but I also need to save for retirement. You might think you have to choose between protecting your loved ones with life insurance or saving for your future, but you don’t have to. You can do both, and it’s easy when you work with your Farm Bureau agent. Let’s talk about life insurance and ensure you’re prepared for the future.
Auto | Home | Life | Business | Farm & Ranch | Crop | Financial Planning Securities & services offered through FBL Marketing Services, LLC,+ 5400 University Ave., West Des Moines, IA 50266, 877.860.2904, Member SIPC. Advisory services offered through FBL Wealth Management, LLC.+ Farm Bureau Property & Casualty Insurance Company,+* Western Agricultural Insurance Company,+* Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company+*/ West Des Moines, IA. +Affiliates. *Company providers of Farm Bureau Financial Services. LI192-ML (2-21)
Page 34
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Winter 2022
Non Profit Organization PRSRT MKT
US POSTAGE
PAID
2220 N. Telshor Las Cruces, NM 88011
PERMIT 1152
Albuquerque, NM
ELECTRONIC SERVICE REQUESTED
NEW MEXICO FARM & LIVESTOCK BUREAU Since 1917 . . . a Leader in New Mexico
NMF&LB NMF&LB 2220 N. BLVD. 2220 N.TELSHOR TELSHOR BLVD. LAS 88011 LASCRUCES, CRUCES, NM NM 88011 575.532.4700 575.532.4700•• FAX: FAX: 575.532.4710 575.532.4710 OFFICERS OFFICERS Craig Ogden Ogden Craig President, Loving Loving President, Larry Reagan Reagan Larry 1st Vice President, Ft. Sumner 1st Vice President, Ft. Sumner Boe Lopez Lopez Boe 2nd Vice President, Springer
2nd Vice President, Springer Chad Smith Smith ChiefChad Executive Officer
Chief Executive Officer
BOARD DIRECTORS BOARD OFOF DIRECTORS Bud Deerman, La Mesa Burl Brown, Des Moines Crystal Diamond,La Elephant Bud Deerman, Mesa Butte Jim Ellett, Hope Butte Crystal Diamond, Elephant Duane Frost, Claunch Jim Ellett, Hope DuaneHarris, Frost, Claunch Travis San Antonio Travis Harris, San Antonio Don Hartman, Deming Don GaryHartman, Hathorn,Deming Flora Vista Gary Hathorn, Flora Vista Leon Hemann, McDonald Leon Hemann, McDonald John Jackson, Lake Arthur John Jackson, Lake Arthur Deena Kinman, Elida Deena Kinman, Elida Donald Martinez, El Rito Donald Martinez, El Rito Kim Miller, Grenville Steve Myrick, Clovis SteveOrtiz, Myrick, Clovis Tommy Las Vegas Tommy Ortiz, Las Stewart Rooks, GilaVegas Stewart Gila Troy Sauble,Rooks, Maxwell Troy Sauble, Maxwell Mario Trujillo, Questa Mario Trujillo, Questa Tom Wilton, Ft. Sumner Tom Wilton, Ft. Sumner
Anita Hand, Chair Women’s Leadership Committee Connie Rooks, Chair Andy Ellett, Chair Women’s Leadership Committee Young Farmers & Johnson, Ranchers Committee Russell Chair Page 24
Page 35
•
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee
REGIONAL DIRECTORS Benjie Segovia Katelin Spradley REGIONAL DIRECTORS Benjie Segovia KatelinTiffany SpradleyRivera
Director of Governmental Affairs
Valerie Huerta Director of Organization Traci Curry
Director, Ag in the Classroom
Tiffany Rivera Director of Governmental Affairs Britney Lardner
Coordinator, Ag in the Classroom
Traci Curry Director, Ag in the Classroom
Francisco Hatay Membership and Marketing Manager Britney Lardner
Coordinator, Ag in the Classroom
Dalene Hodnett Director Communications FranciscoofHatay andMarketing Media Relations Membership and Manager Dalene Hodnett Cecilia Diaz-Johnson Director of Communications Bookkeeper and Media Relations
Theresa Widner Cecilia Diaz-Johnson Executive Administrative Assistant Bookkeeper
Theresa Widner Executive Administrative Assistant Spring 2021
Winter 2022